Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi is losing its head of international and primary English-language spokesperson Hugo Barra after he announced his exit from the company.
Former Android executive joined Xiaomi 3.5 years ago, in what was then a major coup , so his exit naturally raises questions about why he is departing. This year, for the first time, Xiaomi declined to provide annual sales figures and admitted it grew too quick, raising doubts about whether it can continue the impressive growth that gave it a $45 billion valuation two years ago.
Brazil-born Barra said in a Facebook post announcing his departure that his primary motivation is home sickness and that he plans to move back to California:
He added that the company’s global footprint, which was his primary responsibility, is “in a very good place.”
At the time of his arrival, the Xiaomi business was limited to Greater China. Under his leadership, it has expanded across Asia and beyond to reach more than 20 countries, although the U.
